
Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Non-refundable booking. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 10 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group worth booking?
Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group is a 288-hour experience in Tokyo, Japan, from $8648 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 10 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (10)
- Duration
- 288 hours
- From
- $8648 per person
Stay at a traditional ryokan with hot springs at the base of Mount Fuji, visit zen temples and gardens in Kyoto, have an authentic encounter with Geisha, experience a tea ceremony, and see the beautiful floating torii ga
What you get
- Dinner
- Breakfast
About this experience
Stay at a traditional ryokan with hot springs at the base of Mount Fuji, visit zen temples and gardens in Kyoto, have an authentic encounter with Geisha, experience a tea ceremony, and see the beautiful floating torii gate at Miyajima. With a maximum of only 8 people, you get the feel of independent travel without having to worry about the language, transportation, hotels, or reservations. Travel in a small group, eat at local restaurants, ride public transportation, and enjoy a flexible schedule. This tour is perfect for active adults who love walking and immersing themselves in a new culture.
What's included
Included
- Dinner
- Breakfast
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Tokyo
Arrive in Japan. Becki or Shawn will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Arrive in Japan. Becki or Shawn will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Wed
- Group size
- Up to 4 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Japan and More
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos





What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 10 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
8 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Value for money
4 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
The guide
2 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
10 verified traveler reviews for Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Intimidated by planning for Japan? Continue reading...
My wife and I have traveled extensively, but we have never attempted Japan on our own. With its ancient culture and history, difficult to understand script and equally difficult language planning a trip to Japan was daunting. Becki and Shawn made our vacation a delight and as easy as going to Washington DC or Yellowstone. Japan and More is something we highly recommend not just for the ease, but also because they are well-versed in the culture, professional and a joy to be around. We visited multiple shrines and temples, museums, gardens, and excellent restaurants during our 12 day stay while traveling across the country using Japan Rail (which would have been very difficult to navigate without their expertise). The Japanese are very welcoming and polite albeit reluctant to attempt English, so having experienced docents is a must. What Becki and Shawn provide beyond direction and translation is an insiders view of the culture and people of Japan as well as personal experience with restaurants and places of interest that only a local would know. It became apparent early on that Becki and Shawn spent significant time vetting the members of our small group doing their best to insure compatibility and a cohesion that added familiarity that never felt strained and added a dimension to this vacation that is well worth the cost of the trip. The accommodations were top-notch everywhere we went each being easily within walking distance to local city highlights. Do we recommend Japan and More (specifically, Becki and Shawn)? Absolutely 100% recommended without reservation! Would we go to Japan again? Yes and we plan on going again in the near future! Would we use Japan and More again? Possibly. Possibly because the trip was so well planned as to be easy-going and without drama that I left Japan thinking “we could do this on our own!” Then I remembered I have no useful conversational Japanese nor am I able to read any Japanese let alone understand Japanese websites (even with English translations). Thankfully, they have a consult service for our next trip! Japan is truly foreign to our western experience but that is what added so much to our vacation. It is filled with beautiful and welcoming people living in a stunningly beautiful land. Tokyo, with its massive crowds and towering buildings containing supermarkets, shopping centers, hardware stores, schools, etc, etc (often all within one building!) is something everyone should experience even if a metropolis is deemed anathema. Kyoto is just down right beautiful and tranquil even with the “crowds” during the fall colors. Do not miss Kyoto. This fantastic trip was possible because of Becki and Shawn! Aratamete arigotōgozamashita!!
Response from the operator: Reading your review made our day. It's good to hear that we made navigating Japan feel so easy for you. We put a lot of thought into putting together that small group, so it’s great to hear that the group dynamics added such a special dimension to your 12 days with us. Becki and I loved sharing those insider spots and local nuances that you most likely wouldn't have found on your own. We’re also flattered that the trip felt so seamless you thought about tackling it solo next time! And we’d be more than happy to help you through our consulting service to keep that next journey drama-free! It was a pleasure having you with us, and we loved seeing you enjoy Japan with the same enthusiasm and interest that we have for this beautiful country.
via Tripadvisor
Highly recommend! No regrets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommend!!! After going down a rabbit hole of research regarding planning a trip to Japan, I finally decided that Japan and more was the way to go. What initially made me go with them over other companies were they offer very small groups so it had a semi-private feel without the high $$$, their tours consisted of a mixture of many cities not just big ones like Tokyo and Kyoto, and Becky was very responsive, kind and patient with all of my questions leading up to a purchase. Her professionalism and knowledge made me feel more comfortable with the decision to move forward. Although navigating through Japan can be done without a tour, I feel it was worth it because Becky and Shawn know the culture, language, etiquette and community. It would have been very stressful, frustrating and confusing trying to navigate all the transportation alone as most signs are in Japanese and it is common for people to not speak English. Prior to our trip departure Becky and Shawn sent weekly emails with short videos to prepare us for our upcoming trip which included information like train etiquette, toilets in Japan and other useful tips. We also had a pre trip video chat with them and filled out detailed questionnaires so the tour could reflect some of our wants/needs. Being a type A person and responsible for all our vacation details, I really appreciated Becky’s attention to detail and her organizational skills. She was always prepared and informed us of the daily plans and had all the reservations for temples, restaurants and transportation handled. It allowed me to be completely relaxed and stress free and really take everything in and enjoy the vacation without having to worry about any logistics. Shawn was very attentive to hearing our ideas and ensuring each person on the trip had personalized recommendations whether it was looking for the best ramen shop or place to buy whiskeys, and the jokes and camaraderie lasted throughout the trip. Since Shawn and Becky know Japan so well they were able to easily navigate us through many cities and take us to all the best locations at the best times of day to avoid the crowds. We were able to eat at authentic restaurants, and visit many shops from local artists and shops owners. We also experienced many different things on this trip including temples, gardens, restaurants, street food, Japanese specialty snacks, geisha dinner, kaiseki dinner, shopping, matcha, ikebana flower arranging and more. I also enjoyed the mix of group activities and individual free time we were given everyday to explore alone if we wanted. I can’t wait to go back again and would highly recommend this tour to anyone.
Response from the operator: It was such a pleasure reading your review, and we are so incredibly grateful for your kind words! It's great news to hear that we helped a fellow "Type A" planner finally take a back seat and enjoy a completely stress-free vacation. And it's also great to hear that the pre-trip videos and questionnaires made you feel so comfortable and well prepared for your journey. We really enjoyed whiskey hunting with you and showing you all the wonderful cultural experiences. Becki and I both loved seeing the camaraderie of your group grow as we enjoyed authentic Japanese meals and all of our daily adventures. Thank you for trusting us with your Japan experience, and we can't wait to see you back again!
via Tripadvisor
It was more than a great trip, it was an amazing trip
We just returned from our first trip to Japan. Our experience traveling with Becki and Shawn on this thoughtfully planned trip was truly amazing and exceeded every expectation. We experienced a variety of cities, each with its own distinct charm and cultural richness. Each day was a great balance; Visiting shrines, palaces, museums, UNESCO sites, and gorgeous gardens— also allowing free time to wander through shops, try local snacks, and enjoy the local vibe. Some highlights of the trip included our hands-on sushi-making class, Ikebana flower-arranging experience with a delightful teacher, and the dinner we had with a a real geisha in training, iconic! Traveling from city to city was smooth and easy as Becki and Shawn pre-purchased all the tickets and accompanied us everywhere. We experienced nearly every mode of transportation Japan has to offer including trains, including the bullet train, subway, buses and taxis. The hotels were fantastic, chosen not only for their prime locations and beautiful views but also for their amenities. We especially appreciated the generous assortment of toiletries and the delicious, bountiful breakfast buffets. The frosting on the cake that truly elevated our Japan experience was being cared for by Becki and Shawn and all their thoughtful preparation. Their detailed itinerary was only the beginning. The newsletters and videos they shared in the weeks leading up to our departure prepared us beautifully to enjoy our 12 days in Japan as respectful and engaged tourists. This was, without question, the best vacation I have ever experienced. Becki and Shawn created a journey that was memorable, meaningful, and truly exceptional. I cannot recommend traveling with them highly enough.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for such a kind and thoughtful review! Hearing that this was the best vacation you’ve ever experienced truly means the world to Becki and me. We put a lot of heart into those pre-trip materials, so we’re thrilled to know that the newsletters and videos helped you feel like a confident, engaged traveler from the moment you arrived. It was our absolute pleasure to take the logistics off your plate so you could focus entirely on the beauty and charm of each city we visited together. We especially loved seeing your enthusiasm during those iconic cultural moments—those are the memories we hope you'll cherish for a lifetime. Thank you again for trusting us with your first visit to Japan and for being such a joy to travel with!
via Tripadvisor
Amazing Japan Tour
Can't say enough of what a great trip this was. We are seasoned travelers, and this was our first time on a tour. The sites, the food, the 4 Star Hotels and all the logistics were handled masterfully by Shawn and Becki. We didn't have to worry about a thing. Shawn and Becki were just a pleasure to travel with as were the other travelers we were with. I would highly recommend Japan and More to anyone wanting to have a memorable, worry-free Japan trip.
Response from the operator: Thank you, D. and S., for your kind words and thoughtful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you had such an incredible experience on your Japan tour with us. It was truly a pleasure to travel with you and share the beauty of Japan together. We take great pride in ensuring that every detail, from the stunning sites to the delicious food and comfortable accommodations, is handled seamlessly. Knowing that you felt relaxed and cared for throughout the journey means everything to us. Your recommendation of Japan and More is greatly appreciated, and we hope to welcome you back on another adventure soon. Thank you once again for traveling with us!
via Tripadvisor
Japan is great, but is even more amazing with the experiences that Becki and Shawn add.
Japan is great, but is even more amazing with the experiences that Becki and Shawn add. From initial planning and pre-departure to every single detail in the actual tour, they made sure that my wife and I could enjoy every experience in the best possible way. They made sure we got to do everything we wanted, learned the local history and customs, we had authentic experiences (not just the tourist ones), all with amazing efficiency as they knew every single detail to ensure we didn't waste valuable time standing around waiting for transportation or in lines. All the accommodations were top notch and if there were any minor issues they were on top of it to make sure we had the best experience. My favorite, they made sure to help us explore all the unique food options each city had, from the best spots with no waiting, to them popping up with a local specialty for us all to enjoy that we likely would not have otherwise experienced. Truly one of our top enjoyable worldwide vacations and couldn't recommend Japan and More any higher, normally I don't write these reviews but they were so good I can't help but want others to have as much fun as we did.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review, S.! We are absolutely thrilled to hear that your Japan tour was such a memorable experience for you and your wife. It was our pleasure to lead you through the beautiful landscapes and rich culture of Japan. We strive to provide authentic experiences that go beyond the typical tourist path, and we're glad that our attention to detail helped enhance your journey. We're glad you enjoyed exploring the local history and all the unique treats we introduced to you. It’s also fantastic to know that you felt well taken care of every step of the way. Your kind words about our efforts to ensure a seamless trip truly mean the world to us. We’re committed to making every tour unforgettable, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with wonderful travelers like you. Thank you for recommending Japan and More; we hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 288 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- 20+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Wed
- Price range
- $8648 to $10198
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 4
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Tokyo.
How much does Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group cost?
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Prices start at $8648 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Tokyo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group take?
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Plan for about 288 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Tokyo is not rushed.
Is Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 10 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable nightlife in Tokyo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 20. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 288-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group?
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Around 4 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Tokyo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Tokyo and add a light layer if any part of the 288-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Explore Japan Tour: 12-day Small Group start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Tokyo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Tokyo?
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Tokyo is less a city than a stack of neighborhoods with completely different opening hours. A guided food crawl through Shinjuku's Omoide Yokocho gets you past the no-tourist curtains, while the day trips west to Hakone and Fuji need an early start to be worth the fare. Our ranking weighs guide quality heavily here, because in Tokyo the guide is the product. On Outty we rank every Tokyo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Tokyo Shinjuku Chopsticks Making Class, Tokyo : Asakusa Chopsticks Making Class, Shinjuku Night Food and Bar Crawl. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Tokyo?
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Late March to May for blossom, October to November for clear Fuji views. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Tokyo?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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